FCBARCELONA.CAT

01.05.2009 20:33

Derby defeat (0-2)

Cristina Collado

Barça have lost the futsal derby with Marfil Santa Coloma, 2-0. The visitors dominated the second half, and won through with a courageous display.

Marfil Santa Coloma need points to avoid relegation and gave it all they had at the Palau Blaugrana. Such was their enthusiasm that Barça Mobicat, who failed to read the game properly, were outplayed for much of the match.

It was the second consecutive defeat for Marc Carmona and his side, although with ElPozo Murcia winning, Barça Mobicat had no chance of grabbing second place anyway. But it would have been nice to get a win before going into the all-important play-off.

0-0 at half time

Marfil Santa Coloma dominated the first half, with Guille conducting the attack, but being thwarted continually by Barça keeper Cristian. Even the Santa Coloma keeper moved up into attack, a tactic often utilised by Marfil.

Barça Mobicat, without the injured Fernandao, relied instead on Igor up front, with Javi Rodríguez assisting, and almost scoring from a well-worked free kick. But by the break, there was still no score.

Keeper almost scoring

Barça Mobicat improved in the second half, but that was when they leaked their first goal. Off a corner, Guille beat Cristian, who could do nothing to prevent the goal. From there on Marfil Santa Coloma’s confidence grew, and Barça Mobicat were left frantically defending constant attacks led by the impressive Guille.

With 3:58 left on the clock, Marc Carmona sent on Chico as a rush goalie. With a five-man attack, Barça Mobicat looked much more dangerous, and Igor, Saad, Javi and Chico himself could all have scored equalisers. But playing such risky tactics, there was always the chance they could let a goal in, and just that happened when Albert Segura stole the ball and struck home into an empty net. With 21 seconds to go, it was too late for any response.

Recognition for youth team

Before the game, there was tribute to the Barça youth team, who have won their league, as did the cadets two weeks ago. Coach Albert Canillas led his team onto the Palau Blaugrana court to receive the applause of the fans.